TCF Bank Stadium Preparation Nearly Complete

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The finishing touches are being put on TCF Bank Stadium for the Bears-Vikings game on Monday night.

University of Minnesota spokesman Garry Bowman says the tarp and heating system were put in place Saturday to protect the field. More than 1,500 workers moved 40,000 cubic yards of snow from the stadium over four days.

Vikings chief marketing officer Steve LaCroix says the team remains "very confident" all ticket-holders will get in. Based on returns and feedback, they're expecting a turnout little lower than the stadium's normal capacity of 50,000 people.

Williams Arena will be open across the street for fans to keep warm before queuing up for the first-come, first-served seating. Free coffee and hand-warmers will also be distributed to people in line.